Connie Yellowtail JacksonIndian Elder of the Year

This individual is known by her students as Kala, grandmother. Constance Yellowtail Jackson has been a vital part of Wyola School for more than forty years; she initiated the first parent committee needed to enact Indian Education locally as well as being a champion for tribal colleges and the Indians into Medicine Program which assists Native pre-med students. In addition, Connie works towards her mother’s vision of Teepees for Children, a program intended to develop resources and opportunities to care for and nurture children in her community.

Students have wonderful things to say about her:

“She helped me read and all kinds of stuff. She even helps me cut out stuff and organize my Wildcat Bucks and reading books. She helps me every day.”

“Some days she brings the whole school cookies!”

School staff values her caring approach, Connie’s love and compassion holds the power to change the atmosphere of a classroom. Connie is not a school employee; she is a volunteer who has dedicated her life to the children of her community. She is quoted as saying, “My primary concern is for the elderly and the children. You can do whatever else you want, but caring for the well-being of these two are what I care about.”

It is with privilege that we acknowledge Connie Yellowtail Jackson with the Elder of the Year Award.